The higher the yield, the higher the risk. A high yield is designed to attract investors. An outrageously high yield attracts fools.

Invest less at the end of the month. Brokers tend to push stocks at the end of the month in an effort to match or surpass their previous month's sales.

If you're uncomfortable with your financial advisor, it's probably with good reason.

Invest in vanity. Buy stocks in high-profile companies whose products are designed to make you feel good and look good.

Sell before the holidays. Stock prices tend to rise on the last trading day before major holidays.

Always leave a sinking ship. There's no virtue in hanging on to losers. And stocks don't have feelings.

The higher the yield, the higher the risk. A high yield is designed to attract investors. An outrageously high yield attracts fools.